What is Lycopene?
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant, belonging to a group of antioxidant pigments called carotenoids. Carotenoids give fruits and vegetables their bright colors. Lycopene lends its red color most famously to tomatoes, but is also found in apricots, papaya, pink grapefruit and watermelon. Lycopene provides protection from the harmful radiation of sunlight, and has been shown to help prevent certain diseases.
Lycopene's Health Benefits
As an antioxidant, lycopene supplements are oriented toward whole-body antioxidant support, breast, eye and/or prostate health. Lycopene is most frequently found in prostate formulas. Studies suggest lycopene has a role to play in the prevention and management of certain cancers, including cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, colon, breast, lung, prostate and skin.
How to Use Lycopene
Lycopene is fat-soluble and will be best absorbed when consumed with foods containing healthy fats (nuts, olive oil, etc) or other oil-based supplements. Dosages vary but usually range from 5-10mg daily.